Chapter 21: Rook sacrifice on g7

I am reading How to Beat Your Dad at Chess by Murray Chandler. I am blogging to create supporting puzzles in studying the content.

A strategic sacrifice is often the prelude to winning the endgame. Plan and prepare for attacks the at g7 when it is only protected by . For the sacrifice to be successful, follow-up from other white pieces - especially - must happen swiftly to exploit the exposed .

Creating the initial situation, where can pressure g7, might not be easy. on g2 usually blocks the g-file. Occasionally a rook can circumvent this by a transfer g3 (perhaps via e3 or a3). However, putting a rook in front of your own g-pawn can be awkward. Better if the g-file is semi-open (White's g-pawn is missing). In this case the second white rook can often also participate in the attack.

Having castled on the same side as Black, this meaning White cracks open its own castle, which must be done carefully.

87) The g-file is semi-open. Before the second joins the attack, will find it tactical to move to f6.

88) Black can play the pattern, too.

89) Black can use the approach to force a draw through a perpetual check with oscillating between f3 and g4.

90) White can take advantage of a semi-open g-file to align and for an assured checkmate.

91) The sacrifice followed up by the -led attack leads to a win for White.

83) The typical configuration. Make the king vulnerable, win material, and end up with on f7. 

84) Make the king vulnerable, win material, and end up with on f2. 

85) support with on h7. Sacrificing the bishop allows for forcing mate.

86) This time, supports on h7. Sacrificing the bishop allows for forcing mate.

My blog | Chapter 20: A bishop targeting g8